Question

How do I get my 3 month old baby to sleep in his crib?

Share

My son is 3 months old and only likes to sleep in his swing. When he was a newborn we had to put the swing in the bedroom because that was the only thing he would sleep in and still is. He hates to be swaddled, and he hates pacifiers. Each time we try and put him to sleep in the crib he screams as if we were beating him. I try to let him cry it out but he just doesn't stop and then I feel really bad and I go get him. But as soon as I put him in the swing, he's out like a light. I really don't know what to do. He's starting to get too big for the swing.

Mom Answers

I cannot let my son cry it out either. I feel way too bad, he doesn't know any better! Maybe when he gets older and understands the concept of betime a little better! Lately, my son has been sleeping with me and he seems to prefer that over the swing. I'm letting him because I am hoping that he gets used to laying flat, with no motion. In the mornings or for his nap, I will try to leave the bed but place pillows up against his sides so he thinks I am still there. It doesn't always keep him asleep but I figure if I keep trying it, it's bound to work eventually! My hope is that he will slowly get used to being flat and by himself, once he sleeps in the bed for a little while without me, I will try putting him in his crib. Hopefully I can get him in his crib by the time he starts sleeping through the night!

Thank you for your advice!! I will try those things. He loves the motion too! We usually keep the swing on, but last night I shut it off while he was sleeping and he woke up:( The most I can get him to sleep in his crib is for 20 mins. Then he wakes up screaming. The dr said to let him cry it out, but I have such a hard time doing that.

I feel your pain, my son is the exact same way. He is four months old and will only sleep with me or in the swing. One thing I have tried, I will wait until he is passed out and then I will try to put him in his crib, placing his butt down first and then his head. For some reason, if you do this, they are less likely to wake up. I also have rolled blankets and put them next to him in the crib so he feels more snug and not so open and alone. Sometimes I can get him to sleep in his crib for about 20 minutes by doing these things. It's going to take awhile but hopefully I can get him in there for good! When your son is sleeping in the swing, is it on? If so, try turning it off once he is completely out so that he can get used to no movement. That's my son's biggest problem. He is used to the movement. Good luck! Just remember, it won't happen over night, it's going to take a while but he will eventually sleep in his crib! Just keep working on it!

This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional. Please review the Terms of Use before using this site. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use.

This site is published by BabyCenter, L.L.C., which is responsible for its contents as further described and qualified in the Terms of Use.